Safaricom and the Kenyan government are facing intense public backlash after a sudden internet and power blackout disrupted a high-profile Thanksgiving ceremony at JCM Church in Nairobi, held in honor of the viral sensation Kaluma Boy. The incident, which occurred on October 5, 2025, has sparked outrage among Kenyans both online and offline, with many accusing authorities of deliberate sabotage.
According to eyewitnesses and church leaders, the internet signal at JCM Church was abruptly cut off during the live-streamed event, which had drawn thousands of viewers across the country. The blackout reportedly occurred just moments before Bishop Ben and other speakers were set to address the congregation. The church’s leadership claims the disruption was targeted, pointing fingers at Safaricom for allegedly interfering with network access.
In a fiery statement, Bishop Ben warned Safaricom against meddling with religious gatherings, saying, “We know what you did. You switched off the internet to silence us. But the truth will still be heard.” His remarks have since gone viral, fueling a wave of criticism against the telecom giant.
Adding to the chaos, the government was also accused of switching off electricity at the venue, plunging the church into darkness and forcing organizers to rely on backup generators. The dual disruption has led many Kenyans to question whether the blackout was politically motivated, especially given Kaluma Boy’s growing popularity and the church’s vocal stance on national issues.
Social media platforms have been flooded with hashtags like #SafaricomBlackout, #JCMShutdown, and #KalumaBoySabotage, with users demanding accountability and transparency. Some have called for a boycott of Safaricom services, while others urged the Communications Authority of Kenya to investigate the incident.
Safaricom has yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations, and government officials have remained silent amid mounting pressure. Meanwhile, civil society groups and digital rights advocates have condemned the blackout, warning that such actions threaten freedom of expression and the right to worship.
